Neumann TLM 103 Condenser Microphone Black

Delivering clear, pristine sound quality at a price point that makes it accessible to the home studio market, the TLM 103 is the flagbearer of a new generation of Neumann microphones that balance unmatched versatility with unbeatable value. At the heart of the Neumann TLM 103 is a purpose-built large-diaphragm condenser capsule derived from the U 87—Neumann’s iconic studio condenser that has long set the standard for studio performance. Combined with innovative transformerless circuitry and a suite of intelligent design elements, the TLM 103 offers ultralow self-noise, a wide dynamic range, and a fixed cardioid pattern that renders audio in breathtaking detail. Simply put, it’s a modern classic and a beautiful expression of the classic Neumann sound.

An Affordable Alternative to the U 87

Introduced in 1997 with the home and project studio audience in mind, the TLM 103 was quickly adopted by audio professionals the world over for its faithful replication of the timeless U 87 sound. Ditching the bulky transformer in favor of Neumann’s transformerless microphone technology, the TLM 103 is roughly half the size and a third of the price of the U 87. The TLM 103’s large-diaphragm K 103 capsule captures the smooth, natural response of the U 87, allowing it to translate the essence of any sound source with stunning accuracy. However, it offers a slightly modern twist with a gentle 4dB presence boost above 5kHz, lending a sense of airiness and dimension that helps vocals and solo instruments pop out of the mix.

Transformerless Circuitry for Stunning Clarity

While the TLM 103 was built as an accessible riff on the U 87, it manages to improve upon its source material in a few key ways. For one, it utilizes a fixed cardioid capsule and innovative transformerless microphone (TLM) technology to reduce noise in ways that transformer-based multi-pattern condensers simply can’t compete with. This innovative circuitry ensures an incredibly transparent signal path that stays true to the original source. Even more impressive is the TLM 103's ultralow 7dB-A self-noise, allowing it to capture the most delicate whispers and nuanced details without a hint of hiss or coloration. This striking purity of sound makes it ideal for applications where the utmost clarity is required, such as hushed vocal takes, classical recordings and Foley work.

A Wide Dynamic Range Brings Impressive Versatility

On the other end of the spectrum, Neumann’s transformerless circuitry also allows the TLM 103 to handle tremendous sound pressure levels up to 138dB without the need for preattenuation. With a vast dynamic range of 131dB, the TLM is a true workhorse in the studio, capable of capturing everything from the delicate details of a fingerpicked acoustic to the high-volume intensity of a maxed-out amplifier. No need to worry about adjusting levels—just let the TLM 103 capture every nuance in vivid detail. Its combination of delicate transparency and robust SPL handling makes it an incredibly versatile studio tool.

Cardioid Pattern Eliminates Unwanted Sound

The TLM 103 features a tight cardioid polar pattern that rejects ambient noise from the rear and side while minimizing off-axis coloration. The result is focused and precise pickup that that renders the intended sound source in striking clarity and detail. It’s perfect for isolating vocals and acoustic instruments and allows you to track loud sources like drums and amplifiers without excessive bleed. With its highly directional polar pattern and excellent feedback suppression, the TLM 103 is even a solid choice for live applications and has been used by the likes of Jack White to mic guitar amps on stage.